The victory not only confirmed the Hawks’ status as outright premiership favourites, it provided the perfect setting for the club to celebrate its 100th birthday in style.

From the anticipated build-up to the celebration, the Hawks looked focused to produce a performance to add to the auspicious occasion and apart from an early challenge from Souths, the home side completely dominated to deliver the club a perfect 100th birthday present.

In front of a parochial home crowd, the Hawks held sway in every aspect of the game, particularly in the midfield and up forward where they carried too many guns for an undermanned Souths outfit.